"My personal motto and purpose in life is to be a bridge to children’s continued learning. It’s so nice that we, as donors and fundraisers, can contribute in small ways to make a big difference to the future of a child.” – Chessa Estuya
Chessa Estuya is a resounding name to the Filipino community in the United Kingdom. When she’s not at work as a Customer Success Account Executive for an international company, she finds ways to give back to her motherland through impactful projects that build better futures for Filipino children.
Since 2020, Chessa has mobilized her community in the UK, in the Philippines, and different parts of the world through fundraising projects for Save the Children. She uses her influence as a live streamer on the social media app Kumu to challenge people to step-up for worthwhile causes.
Chessa was recently chosen as a baton bearer for the Queen’s Baton Relay. She was part of a select group of inspiring individuals who had a special, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deliver the message of Her Majesty, the Queen, to the Commonwealth nations and territories in 269 days, covering approximately 90,000 miles. The message she carried was read at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham on 28 July.
Let’s get into the mind of Chessa, a symbol of Filipina excellence, changing children’s lives for the better from across the miles .
How did you first hear about Save the Children and what made you decide to support the organization?
During the pandemic, I wanted to find a charity that supports kids’ continued education. What caught my interest with Save the Children and why I chose to support them is not only the materials, such as tablets and learning kits, they have provided, but they think about how to make education sustainable during emergencies. I really like that extra support has been provided to both children and their parents.
Can you share about the fundraising project you did for Save the Children? What was the highlight of your experience?
In September 2021, was involved in two fundraising projects. In August 2020, we fundraised for Save the Children’s Project ARAL for children’s continued learning despite the pandemic. We aligned our fundraising activity with our Buwan ng Wika and other organized events. We also held a benefit concert graced by Filipino artists such as Ebe Dancel, Monty Macalino, Rouge, Earl Generao, Chloe Redondo, and Tiara Shaye. On KUMU, we held a virtual “Palarong Pinoy.” Overall, we raised a total of PhP 136,762.
In September 2021, we raised funds and advocated for the prevention of malnutrition through a podcast and concert titled “Musika ng Pag-asa” via KUMU featuring Filipino artists Monty Macalino, Nyoy Volante, Julianne Tarroja, The Bradz, Monique De Los Santos, and Wayne Cuevas.
Because the UK started easing COVID-19 restrictions, we also had an on-site concert featuring local Filipino artists in London and invited local businesses to promote and help our fundraising wherein we reached PhP 150,691.
How would you describe Save the Children to someone who is also interested to make a difference for children?
Save the Children is an organization that helps support children and communities. They ensure that whatever resources raised will benefit the children, and they go a long away as parents are also capacitated. It is an organization that focuses on the “now” and ensures there is a “future” ahead for these kids.
What are your hopes and aspirations for Filipino children?
My personal motto and purpose in life is to be a bridge to children’s continued learning and provide support and opportunities for children to excel in their chosen field, in whatever way possible.
If you can describe your journey with Save the Children in one word, what would it be?
Impactful. With Save the Children’s work for and with children, I honestly see the fruit of everyone’s hard work. It’s so nice that we, as donors and fundraisers, can contribute in small ways to make a big difference to the future of a child. Thank you for being that platform for us.
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Like Chessa, you too can be a Partner for Children. Send an email to judy.malabanan@savethechildren.org to get started. We will help you think of ways to engage your family, friends, and colleagues in this advocacy to build better futures for Filipino children. All it takes is a place in your heart to say yes and accept the challenge.